Top Six in The 6 - Aphrodisiac dishes

With Valentine’s Day just days away - we took a look at how certain foods we eat can directly impact our hormones, brain chemistry and energy levels. Our discoveries? Six of the most aphrodisiac friendly dishes to eat in Toronto and where to get them.

Published: Wednesday 10th February 2016

It seems like chocolate is no-brainer aphrodisiac food and for good reason. It contains the chemicals anandamide and phenylethylamine, both which boost serotonin levels and makes getting in bed seem super appealing. If you are looking for a dish that combines chocolate and arguably tastes as good as the deed itself, we recommend Cafe Boulud's tried and true profiteroles. With vanilla ice cream, candied pecans and a dark chocolate sauce drizzled over top of filled French choux pastry balls, it’s quite mind-blowing.

We couldn't create this list and not include oysters - arguably the food most associated with being an aphrodisiac. Due to their high zinc content, freshly shucked oysters have been known to help increase the libido. There's no better place to tuck into some than the raw bar over at The Chase Fish and Oyster. Serving up a variety of fresh oysters, housemade mignonettes and sauces - we imagine people will be rushing to get their shuck on this Valentine's Day alongside a glass of bubbly.

What many don’t know is that salmon is a natural aphrodisiac. High in omega-3 fatty acids, it has been known to raise serotonin levels in the brain and increase blood flow throughout all areas of the body. That's why an indulgent bite of it may be just the ticket for love. We suggest trying Maman Toronto’s Smoked Salmon Tartinette, a generous portion of smoked salmon packed together on a crisp French baguette slice alongside dill and onions. These little bites will make you feel as thought you've been whisked away to a Parisian café in the city of love. How fitting.

Since the Aztec time, the avocado was deemed an aphrodisiac for its appearance to - ahem - male testicles and its sensuous texture. The avocado contains high levels of folic acid, B6 and potassium which can help increase the male hormone production glands. If you’re looking to ‘turn up’, then it might be time to head on down to Fring's to nosh on some of their avocado spread on toast. This dish, topped with spinach, tomato basil concasse, tahini, alfalfa sprouts will get your evening started on the right foot. In the words of Drake, “what a time to be alive”.

Did you know that figs are the forbidden fruit? Having played such an important role in the biblical tale of Adam & Eve - the fig is associated with love and fertility. Also, it’s been said that figs bear a striking resemblance to um, lady’s nether regions. King West's Patria serves up figs in their traditional Spanish dish: the Queso de Cabra Frito Con Higos Y Miel. Complimenting the fruit in this shareable dish is goat cheese, walnuts and a bonus second aphrodisiac food, honey.

Everyone loves a good cut of steak but did you know, it’s also an aphrodisiac? Lean red meat boosts dopamine and norepinephrine hormones, which increases the heart rate. What it’s also been shown is that a good lean cut of meat also carries a lot of zinc which can boost the libido. For a good cut, you can't go wrong with The Keg Steakhouse + Bar. Head to one of their locations in the city for a juicy steak and pair it alongside a glass of red wine (something else that can help increase your desire).